China signals opposition to Scottish independence

Li Keqiang, the Chinese premier, appears to join Barack Obama in calling for
Scotland to remain a part of the United Kingdom

China has signalled its opposition to Scottish independence, with the country's premier saying that he wants to see a “united, United Kingdom”.

In yet another boost for the No campaign ahead of September’s Scottish independence referendum Li Keqiang, the Chinese premier, said that he wants a “strong” United Kingdom.

His comments follow an intervention by Barack Obama, who earlier this month said that the UK is better off remaining together.

Speaking alongside Mr Cameron in a press conference, Mr Li said that he wanted a "strong, prosperous and united United Kingdom".

He said: "I believe that the United Kingdom can stay at the forefront in leading the world's growth and development and also continue to play an important and even bigger role for regional stability and global peace."

His comments will come as a further blow to Alex Salmond, the Scottish First Minister, who has courted the Chinese in recent years.

Nationalists attempted to dismiss the remarks, with a Yes Scotland spokesman saying that "unlike people in China" the Scottish people will have a "free and democratic vote" on September 18.

But the pro-UK campaign said Mr Li intervention was simply more proof that leaders across the world appreciate how much rests on the independence referendum.

Earlier this month Mr Obama said: "With respect to the future of the United Kingdom, obviously ultimately this is up to the people of Great Britain.

"In the case of Scotland, there is a referendum process in place and it’s up to the people of Scotland.

“But I would to say the United Kingdom has been an extraordinary partner to us. From the outside at least, it looks like things have worked pretty well.

“We obviously have a deep interest in making sure one of the closest allies we will ever remains a strong, robust, united and effective partner.”

A Better Together spokesperson said: "Interventions from world leaders like Premier Li, Pope Francis and President Barack Obama confirm how important the decision we will make in September is. We cannot afford to get this one wrong, which is why we should say No Thanks to separation."

A Yes Scotland spokesman said: "Unlike people in China, people here will have a free and democratic vote on September 18 when they will decide on the future of their country. We believe that decision will be Yes."